2008-07-04T04:33:40Z http://blog.nhlaconvention.com/atom.aspx Quick Blog tag:blog.nhlaconvention.com,2007-09-14:b579e7fc-bbd7-4f0d-af20-caf7fd26c8b9 Mark Barford 2007-09-14T10:25:27Z 2007-09-14T10:24:00Z Colonel Oliver North brought the crowd to their feet in support of the military.  He reminded the crowd that the best way for them to support our troops is to hire a Vet!

Educational seninars today included a report on domestic hardwood lunber markets, international lumber markets and the Seven Deadly Sins in the Lumber Industry.  All with great questions and interchange.

Free lunch today in the exhibit hall along with various affiliate meetings this afternoon in preparation for Gala gathering this evening!

Comments we hear let us know that the convention is fulfilling all expectations.
]]> tag:blog.nhlaconvention.com,2007-09-13:041103b7-1eba-4483-a54b-4ed5e8053a1a Mark Barford 2007-09-13T14:50:04Z 2007-09-13T10:02:00Z
President Howard talked about the changes the Association is maiking to prepare us to meet industry demands for years to come.  His clear vision is reshaping the work of NHLA. 

Ron and Ryan Andrews accepted the Forest Stewardship Award on behalf of their company, Deer Park Lumber in PA. 

The morning crowd exceeded 800 people, making it one of the best attended Opening Sessions.  The tradeshow is abuzz, and the beautiful weather has made everyone's day fantastic.  The women are enjoying a lunch at the Daughters of the American Revolution Headquarters and several affiliated groups are preparing to meet.

I am planning to go hear what the Legends of Lumber panel has to say to sift out any great words of advice.

]]> tag:blog.nhlaconvention.com,2007-09-12:21af59d4-ba75-4281-b7cc-c42ac684371e Mark Barford 2007-09-12T19:53:11Z 2007-09-12T19:50:00Z Yesterday 40 industry members trooped around capitol hill meeting with legislators and staff under the direction of the Hardwood Federation..  Kevin Ketchum, NHLA Director of Public Affairs,  and I met with TN Senator Alexander and the staff of TN Senator Corker.

Today we kick off the convention with our welcome reception and Board of Managers dinner.

We crank up with our full program at 7am. I will let you know how it is going.

]]> tag:blog.nhlaconvention.com,2007-09-11:c55179f6-c4d2-4278-a9db-0d4423cd9892 Mark Barford 2007-09-11T10:39:06Z 2007-09-11T08:13:00Z Tuesday, September 11

I'm here in DC along with limited staff getting ready for the 1000 members and friends who will be joining us this week.

Washington is a buzz today with Sept. 11 observances and talk of the war.  The Hardwood Federation kicks off today including meetings with Senators and Representatives.

Look forward to seeing you soon.

]]>